At Healthier Weight we take a very pragmatic view of obesity. In today’s society, it is even more difficult to manage one’s weight. 

History tells us that explaining the health risks of obesity simply doesn’t work. We have 2 million people in the country with a BMI above 40 who are tired of hearing that they are at an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and an early death. The message simply doesn’t seem compelling enough to get people to act. 

Mr Rishi Singhal, Weight Loss Surgeon and Medical Director at Healthier Weight, said:

‘I’m amazed that so few people choose not to have weight loss surgery to help manage their weight. The outcomes are generally excellent and I see in my clinic every week patients who have changed their life by taking the bold step to have surgery. It’s clear the current efforts to tackle obesity are not working and it’ll be interesting to see what effect this new guidance to women will have. Personally, I don’t think that trying to scare people into action is usually very effective, but this subject is so personal and sensitive, it could be different. It will be essential for GPs and their staff to be properly trained in how to deal with this subject in a way that shows patients the respect they deserve.’  

I read with interest today about a new approach that is being adopted with women who are pregnant or attempting to get pregnant. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists have issued guidelines to GPs that women wanting to become pregnant should be encouraged to lose weight first because being overweight or obese increases the risk of complications to the mum AND the baby.  

Many of the patients we see come to see because their weight is stopping them from getting pregnant. This new guidance gives an added reason to lose weight before starting a family. 

Its unlikely that those wanting to lose weight with pregnancy and parenthood in mind would undergo weight loss surgery, but the non-surgical options could be as effective for this group.  

If you want to explore your weight loss options before getting pregnant, or the risks obesity represents, call us on 0800 313 4618 and one of our consultants will be pleased to answer your questions.